Serum DHEA-S Reference Ranges in Adult Women
Adult women generally have age-dependent DHEA-S reference ranges of approximately 35–430 µg/dL (adult female, typical lab reference interval). [1] Age-specific reference ranges are used by many laboratories. For example, MedlinePlus lists a reference interval of 45–320 µg/dL for ages 18–29 years, with ranges changing across adulthood. [2]
Adrenal Tumor Suspicion Threshold for DHEA-S
Very high serum DHEA-S levels in women may indicate adrenal androgen excess. Levels >700–800 µg/dL in women are described as suggestive of a hormone-secreting adrenal tumor and warrant adrenal-directed evaluation. [3]
Practical Interpretation Considerations
DHEA-S results should be interpreted using the specific laboratory’s reference interval because DHEA-S reference ranges vary by assay method and age. [1], [2] Supposition of an adrenal tumor should be based on markedly elevated DHEA-S together with clinical androgen-excess features and confirmatory repeat testing when appropriate. [3]